SMITH, Margaret Jean – age 78 of Dayton, Yarmouth Co., passed away peacefully at the break of dawn on March 9, 2019 at Yarmouth Regional Hospital. Born in Yarmouth, August 23, 1940 she was a daughter to Earl and Alma (Killam) Smith. What Mom lacked in stature she certainly made up for with a strong will. She exhibited great tenacity when confronting her challenges in life which, along with many other things, included fighting cancer – and she beat it. She was always pleased to chat with old friends and acquaintances as she went about her daily routine, but her passion for gardening gave her the greatest satisfaction. When her tasks were completed she would sit outside in her favorite chair in the garden to unwind and have time with her thoughts. As summer gave way to fall, preparations for the Christmas season permeated her every thought. She loved everything about Christmas. Trips to Wheatons were a big part of those preparations. She would get so excited about what to do with the treasures she was bringing home. She is survived by her daughter, Heather Crosby, Arcadia; sons, Paul (Tracy) Durkee, Brooklyn; Ralph Durkee, B.C. grandchildren, Bryan, Jamie, Megan, Kristin, Jade; and great grandchildren, Evan, Audrey and Anna. Besides her parents she was predeceased by her brothers, Ronald, Harris and Harry. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Sweeny’s Funeral Home and Crematorium, Yarmouth. A graveside service will be held in Arcadia Cemetery at a later date with Rev. A.D. “Bill” Newell officiating. Donations in memory made be made to Friends of T.N.R. and Fidelis House in Kentville. Online condolences may be sent to: sweenyfh@eastlink.ca or you may sign the guestbook on-line at: www.sweensfuneralhome.net.